US Issues Travel Warning For Europe

US Issues Travel Warning For Europe

WASHINGTON – On Monday, the Department of State issued a travel advisory alerting US citizens to the continued threat of terrorist attacks throughout Europe. This travel alert expires on September 1, 2017.

According to the State Department, recent, widely-reported incidents in France, Russia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom demonstrate that the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS or Da’esh), al-Qa’ida, and their affiliates have the ability to plan and execute terrorist attacks in Europe.

While local governments continue counterterrorism operations, the Department said it nevertheless remains concerned about the potential for future terrorist attacks. US citizens should always be alert to the possibility that terrorist sympathizers or self-radicalized extremists may conduct attacks with little or no warning.

Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities as viable targets. In addition, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, high-profile events, educational institutions, airports, and other soft targets remain priority locations for possible attacks. US citizens should exercise additional vigilance in these and similar locations, in particular during the upcoming summer travel season when large crowds may be common.

Terrorists persist in employing a variety of tactics, including firearms, explosives, using vehicles as ramming devices, and sharp-edged weapons that are difficult to detect prior to an attack.

US citizens should:

• Review information and follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.

• Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions.

• Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.

• Have an emergency plan of action ready.

• Register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

“We continue to work closely with our European partners and allies on the threat from international terrorism. Information is routinely shared between the United States and our key partners to disrupt terrorist plotting, identify and take action against potential operatives, and strengthen our defenses against potential threats,” the State Department said.